Pancreatic metastasis: sonographic findings

Abstract

Background: Pancreatic metastasis is a relatively rare pathologic condition. Its ultrasound (US) findings have been infrequently reported, and there has been no previous report describing its color Doppler findings.

Methods: We reviewed the US findings of 13 such cases.

Results: The pancreatic metastasis consisted of a single hypoechoic nodule in four cases and multiple hypoechoic nodules in nine cases. US showed a slight dilatation of the main pancreatic duct in two cases of pancreatitis, and a marked biliary dilatation in one case of jaundice. The US results prompted introduction of appropriate treatment in these cases. Color Doppler US was useful for confirming the absence of flow abnormalities in the arterial and portal systems around the pancreas. In a patients with renal carcinoma metastasis, it showed many fine blood flow signals in the metastatic lesions.

Conclusion: The role of US in the diagnosis of pancreatic metastasis consists of associated complications such as biliary dilatation or pancreatitis and detection of isolated lesions. Additional information provided by color Doppler US may increase diagnostic confidence.